CITY OF SOUTH GATE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
MINUTES
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2026
CALL TO ORDER Joshua Barron, Mayor called a Regular City Council Meeting to order at 7:02 p.m.
INVOCATION Tina De La Rosa, Acting Director of Parks & Recreation
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Tony Mendez, South Gate Police Officer
ROLL CALL
Yodit Glaze, City Clerk
PRESENT Mayor Joshua Barron, Vice Mayor Al Rios, Council Member Maria del Pilar Avalos, Council Member Maria Davila and Council Member Gil Hurtado; City Treasurer Jose De La Paz, City Manager Rob Houston, City Attorney Raúl F. Salinas
COMMENTS FROM THE
AUDIENCE - NON-AGENDA
ITEMS Elia Dominguez Ozaeta, South Gate resident, spoke in Spanish to accommodate the neighbors in the community who either only speak Spanish, prefer Spanish, or are active voters - regardless of documentation status. All are contributors to the city of South Gate's taxes, and every voice is important in a democratic society. Irela seeks to highlight certain barriers that this council and the City of South Gate have created, which hinder the participation of Spanish-speaking residents in these meetings.
Due to the current political climate, there is genuine concern among those who primarily speak Spanish about being labeled as undocumented. The city police have made it clear that they do not provide support in cases involving federal detention.
The agenda published last Thursday is not available in Spanish, preventing Spanish-speaking community members from preparing comments or suggestions. While it may not be a legal requirement, you have the authority to propose that the agenda be made accessible to all community members.
The meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. because many attendees are still at work. Additionally, some senior citizens have limited mobility or feel uncomfortable driving at night, and our Spanish-speaking neighbors are important members of the community whose opinions should be heard.
Taking time off work to attend and provide public comments is considered a privilege, but it shouldn't have to be. There needs to be a way for the public to call in and share their views without risking their income or safety.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 10, 2026
COMMENTS FROM THE
AUDIENCE - NON-AGENDA
ITEMS CONT’D When the City Council of South Gate removed the Zoom option, it reduced opportunities for all citizens to participate. Council Members have the power to increase public access, yet that opportunity is denied. Public comments sent to the city clerk are not read in full; during the last meeting, only six emails against the UUT and five in favor were acknowledged. Citizens invest their time to write and express their views.
Therefore, she requests the council to implement a 300-word maximum for public comments sent by email, so any reader can easily read them in entirety.
Maryann Lovato, Madison Avenue, reported that the city currently holds a contract with UWS. She noted that throughout November, December, January, and February, containers are consistently handled carelessly every week. Maryann has a video she wishes to share, along with information about the truck driver’s name and truck number. Additionally, she pointed out that UWS is not registered with the Better Business Bureau and that residents and businesses have expressed dissatisfaction with UWS.
Juan Ramon Cortez, South Lake Avenue, raised concerns about neglected weeds along the railroad, incomplete cleaning efforts, and parking restrictions that weren't followed up with actual maintenance. He noted a block painted red near the recycling center where parking is needed, street sweeper water pooling near a fire hydrant causing odor, and auto work occurring on streets by semi-truck businesses.
Sammy Korea reported a lamppost outage on Kansas Avenue that lasted 18 months. After speaking with Francisco from Public Works, he was informed it is being addressed. Mr. Korea also noted his permitted ADU was added after 14 months. He mentioned the tax issue will be discussed soon and asked if a guarantee could speed up service.
Ruth Serrano, South Gate resident, noted that a Spanish-speaking parks employee at the senior center is being transferred, and the replacement does not speak Spanish. She requested the city magazine be published in Spanish and asked for a bus stop by the railroad tracks, as she travels by bus and is dropped off on State or Firestone.
Hector De La Torre, South Gate resident, missed the study session but submitted a letter addressing the city's fiscal challenges. He suggests putting the Utility Users Tax on the ballot for voter consideration.
Edgar Pelayo, Mallison Avenue noted that residents are concerned about the use of tax funds and lack of transparency. He also requested that the agenda be available in Spanish.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 10, 2026
COMMENTS FROM THE
AUDIENCE - NON-AGENDA
ITEMS CONT’D
Erica Heredia, South Gate resident, emphasized that the community deserves transparency and the opportunity to engage in decisions impacting safety, services, and the future. She highlighted several challenges facing the city, such as potential budget reductions, the proposed utility user's tax, and the possibility of declaring a physical emergency. As a resident, Erica supports declaring a physical emergency to allow residents the chance to vote on whether to implement a utility user’s tax.
According to the presented information, the city faces an estimated $9 million budget deficit. Without additional revenue sources, significant service reductions may occur, including the elimination of full-time positions, slower police response times, decreased public works services, restricted park access and lighting, closures of community programs and facilities, and cancellation of key city events. Conversely, a voter- approved utility user’s tax could provide necessary funding to sustain current service levels relied upon by residents.
Erica asserts that South Gate residents are entitled to comprehensive information and direct participation in decisions affecting city services and public safety. She stresses that this issue extends beyond financial concerns; it involves empowering residents and maintaining essential services crucial for a safe, clean, and functioning community. Erica encourages the council to prioritize clear communication and to facilitate opportunities for residents to vote and contribute to solutions. Ultimately, she respectfully requests the council to ensure residents are well-informed, heard, and able to participate in shaping the community's future.
Veronica Hurtado, South Gate resident, agrees with Ms. Heredia and supports letting residents vote on the utility user’s tax.
Maria Cortez thanked those who helped AYSO kids practice during their tournament, using baseball diamonds 9 and 10 through February 25th.
She’s concerned about the uncertainty of the spring soccer season due to permit approvals not being finalized until February 24th, which was expected to affect spring 2027, not 2026. She hopes for an earlier solution and supports the utility user’s tax despite some opposition.
Jimmy Ozaeta, South Gate resident, fully concurs with another community member who emphasized the importance of residents having a voice. He noted that although residents have expressed their concerns and invested $114,000 in a city survey, they have yet to receive any results. Mr. Ozaeta
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 10, 2026
COMMENTS FROM THE
AUDIENCE - NON-AGENDA
ITEMS CONT’D acknowledged the remarks of the former Councilmember but referenced an article indicating the Councilmember’s relocation to Downey. He remarked that trust must be earned rather than simply given, highlighting that legitimate questions posed by residents remain unanswered.
Referencing Measure P, which was passed in 2008 and has generated over $200 million since its inception, he observed that Council Members Hurtado and Davila assured the public these funds would support community infrastructure improvements and enhance city services.
However, he pointed out that major street upgrades and revitalized parks have not been financed by Measure P revenues. Mr. Ozaeta requested comprehensive financial reports, including explanatory narratives, detailing the use of these funds annually since 2008. He also expressed concern regarding the impact of the utility user’s tax on senior citizens.
Jocelyn Campos, South Gate resident, mentioned that the council intends to raise taxes, but she hasn't observed where the tax money is going. She has seen significant improvements to some streets, though not all have been upgraded, and noted that sidewalks still haven't been repaired.
Johanna Monteroza, a South Gate employee with over 22 years of service, is concerned about comments on the city’s finances, which largely result from misinformation spread by a small group. Recent council meetings have focused on the budget, mismanagement, and calls for a fiscal emergency due to unfunded liabilities and structural deficit issues common among cities, but South Gate lacks alternative revenue sources.
Johanna urges the council to consider if layoffs, park closures, and fewer police constitute an emergency, and suggests letting residents vote on how to address these challenges.
Carlos Corela, a long-time South Gate employee and community member, believes the city faces a fiscal emergency due to impending service cuts.
He recommends allowing residents to vote on how to address these challenges.
A South Gate resident on San Luis Avenue recently learned about the utility user’s tax and, though reluctant, is willing to pay if needed. He feels residents lack information on city spending; a recent survey was confusing and unclear. Publishing agendas in Spanish would help, and voting should be more accessible for seniors uncomfortable with electronics. While no one wants to lose salary, inflation is rising faster than wages. The city should carefully discuss which services to cut, prioritizing essential ones.
REPORTS AND COMMENTS
FROM CITY OFFICIALS Arturo Cervantes, Director of Public Works, acknowledged concerns about public works and provided his business card.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 10, 2026
REPORTS AND COMMENTS
FROM CITY OFFICIALS
CONT’D Mayor Barron asked for updates.
Tina De La Rosa, Acting Director of Parks & Recreation, reported that the first eco garden demonstration was held at the Urban Orchard this past Saturday. The event was structured as a lecture; however, a more hands-on session will be offered on April 4th. Additionally, a golf tournament is scheduled for February 22nd, with limited spots still available. Tina also announced that registration for the spring fit event has begun, and within the first month, 375 runners have registered. Registration for the Easter Fest will take place on February 23rd at the Girls Clubhouse.
Gabriel Perez, Director of Community Development, announced a community open house on Wednesday, February 18th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Civic Center. The event will discuss re-engagement with the Gateway District Specific Plan for the 59 acres surrounding the future metro station along the Southeast Gateway line, which will link South Gate, Artesia, and downtown Los Angeles.
Jon Hamilton, Director of Human Resources – nothing to report.
Manny Arana, Chief of Police – nothing to report.
Rob Houston, City Manager, addressed concerns about unanswered questions, emphasizing his and the finance director’s ability to respond.
He noted that despite offering to meet with those who complain about lack of answers, they have declined multiple times. Mr. Houston also assured the community that he answers council queries to the best of his ability, including some received via public records requests.
He mentioned attending the annual City Manager’s Conference through Cal Cities and highlighted cost-saving measures: city funds cover airfare, but he will stay with his college son and use his son's car for transportation instead of charging the city for hotel or travel expenses, setting an example during tough financial times.
Jose De La Paz, City Treasurer, concurred with Ms. Ozaeta regarding the need for enhanced dialing capabilities to facilitate remote participation. He recommended that the city provide updates about potential implementation, timelines, and proposed features as information becomes available. In addition to dialing capabilities, Mr. De La Paz suggested reintroducing Zoom to enable remote participation via video as well as audio. He emphasized the importance of ensuring translation services and streaming through Zoom so that remote participants can access meetings in their preferred language or, at minimum, receive translated text or visual information to effectively understand the content shared by the city.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 10, 2026
REPORTS AND COMMENTS
FROM CITY OFFICIALS
CONT’D Yodit Glaze, City Clerk, addressed comments about Spanish translation for agenda bills and upcoming teleconferenced meetings. Senate Bill 707 requires cities like ours to translate meetings and agendas into applicable languages, based on population percentages; for us, that's Spanish. The Clerk's office is preparing to provide these translation services and exploring teleconferencing options.
Ms. Glaze stated that the Registrar/County Clerk’s Office manages elections, with county staff available at polling places to assist voters. And she wished Council Member Davila a happy birthday.
Ms. Glaze announced her donation to Locks of Love and thanked everyone for their well wishes.
Luis Fausto, Director of Administrative Services, said the city is working to meet SB 707 requirements and exploring technology solutions before the deadline.
Councilmember Avalos acknowledged public comments and emphasized the importance of providing Spanish translation services, noting the need to comply with SB 707 and requesting clarification on associated costs.
She also addressed concerns regarding public comment emails not being read into the record, stressing the importance of maintaining public trust by ensuring submissions are fully presented rather than summarized.
Pursuant to AB 1234, Councilmember Avalos reported her attendance at the Southeast Water Coalition Board meeting, where the Board approved prior minutes and discussed potential membership expansion, including consideration of allowing the Water Replenishment District to rejoin. She noted concerns regarding past decisions impacting water rates and the importance of reviewing the agency’s history before making a determination. She also announced her upcoming attendance at the Greater Los Angeles Water Control meeting.
Councilmember Avalos spoke extensively on the current challenges facing the community, including the lasting impacts of COVID-19, recent fires, and immigration enforcement actions, highlighting the economic and emotional strain on residents, particularly low-income families, seniors, and undocumented community members. She expressed concern over rising costs of living, declining business activity, and the financial hardships faced by residents.
She urged the Council to approach fiscal decisions, including discussions surrounding the Utility Users Tax (UUT), with empathy and fiscal responsibility, emphasizing the need to prioritize cost-saving measures and REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 10, 2026
REPORTS AND COMMENTS
FROM CITY OFFICIALS
CONT’D explore all alternatives before placing additional financial burdens on residents. She highlighted the importance of supporting small businesses, workers, and vulnerable populations, noting the broader economic and social impacts on the community.
Councilmember Avalos concluded by reaffirming her commitment to representing the community’s interests, advocating for compassionate leadership, and working collaboratively to address the City’s fiscal challenges.
Councilmember Davila stated she had no formal report but acknowledged the concerns expressed by residents. She emphasized the Council’s responsibility to allow the community the opportunity to participate in the democratic process, including deciding whether to vote on a Utility Users Tax (UUT).
City Attorney Salinas noted that two Council Members have commented on this matter. He reminded the Council that the UUT topic is not on tonight’s agenda and emphasized the importance of adhering to the Brown Act, which allows only brief comments. He requested that any remarks remain limited and avoid suggesting or implying any direction or vote. His intent is to ensure respect for the full Council and compliance with legal requirements.
Council Member Davila stated that while she has great respect for the City Attorney, the clarification should have been provided at the outset when the Councilwoman Avalos began discussing the UUT.
City Attorney Salinas stated that while he could have intervened, it was a judgment call. He explained that he aims to respect each speaker’s viewpoint and avoid interrupting anyone. For that reason, he waited until Councilwoman Davila finished before offering his comments to the other gentlemen.
Councilmember Hurtado stated he would not comment on the Utility Users Tax (UUT) but emphasized his availability to meet with residents and engage in open, two-way conversations. He encouraged the public to conduct their own research, including reviewing past City meetings and records, noting that discussions regarding the City’s financial condition have been ongoing.
He stressed the importance of transparency, open dialogue, and accountability, expressing concern over anonymous communications, limited discourse on social media, and the need for respectful exchange of differing viewpoints. He also encouraged individuals to be open to discussion and collaboration.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 10, 2026
REPORTS AND COMMENTS
FROM CITY OFFICIALS
CONT’D Councilmember Hurtado addressed recent community concerns, including immigration-related issues, expressing empathy for affected residents and discouraging negative or disrespectful public responses to individuals sharing their experiences. He noted efforts to inform and support the community, including outreach and resource sharing.
He concluded by encouraging civility and unity during challenging times and extended well wishes to the community.
Vice Mayor Rios acknowledged public comments and emphasized the importance of continued outreach to the Spanish-speaking community to ensure access to information. He requested follow-up regarding concerns raised about the City’s waste contractor, as well as ongoing cleanup efforts in certain areas of the city.
He highlighted the importance of transparency and communication, particularly regarding public records and community access to information, and encouraged continued responsiveness to resident inquiries.
Vice Mayor Rios raised concerns about library closures and the lack of response from LA Unified School District regarding prior discussions on school safety collaboration. He also noted that declining school enrollment, potentially related to immigration concerns, may impact school funding and the broader community.
He reported attending the City’s Youth Summit and thanked organizers for their efforts. Additionally, he inquired about maintenance issues at City parks, including the status of restroom repairs impacting youth sports programs, and raised concerns regarding staffing changes at the Senior Center, emphasizing the importance of bilingual services and continuity for participants.
Vice Mayor Rios acknowledged ongoing discussions regarding the Utility Users Tax (UUT), noting the complexity of the issue and the importance of continued dialogue. He emphasized the need to prioritize the community, maintain service levels, and work collaboratively toward solutions that support the City’s long-standing role as a leader in the region.
Mayor Barron reported on his attendance at a Los Angeles County Sanitation District orientation, where he learned about water treatment processes, infrastructure improvements, and future plans for water reuse, including the development of a Pure Water facility in Carson.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 10, 2026
REPORTS AND COMMENTS
FROM CITY OFFICIALS
CONT’D He also shared his participation in St. Helen’s Career Day, highlighting engagement with students and City staff, and emphasized the importance of public service and decision-making in leadership. Additionally, he attended a Rotary Club Interact meeting, where he discussed the wide range of City services and the value of having diverse functions and expertise within the organization.
Mayor Barron addressed concerns regarding City contractors, emphasizing the need for high-quality customer service and accountability, and encouraged continued follow-up to ensure service standards are met.
Regarding community engagement, he noted attending multiple meetings with residents to discuss City issues, including the Utility Users Tax (UUT), and emphasized the importance of providing information, transparency, and accessibility to the public.
He also responded to comments regarding City employee compensation, providing context on past employee concessions, including prior pay reductions and limited increases, and emphasized the importance of recognizing their contributions and service.
Lastly, Mayor Barron highlighted the success of the Junior Athletic Association softball registration, noting strong participation from both residents and surrounding communities, and underscored the City’s regional impact and commitment to quality programs and services.
CONSENT CALENDAR Agenda Items 1, 2, 3, and 4 were unanimously approved by motion of Council Member Davila and seconded by Vice Mayor Rios. Items 1 and 4, were pulled for separate discussion.
ROLL CALL: Council Member Avalos, yes; Council Member Hurtado, yes (recuse on items 1 and 2); Council Member Davila, yes; Vice Mayor Rios, yes; Mayor Barron, yes.
1 PARKS The City Council unanimously approved items A, B &C during consent calendar:
a. Accepted completion of construction, effective October 13, 2025, of the Circle Park Renovation Project, City Project No. 609-PRK, constructed by Loghmani & Associates Design Group Inc.
(Loghmani);
b. Authorized the City Manager to approve Change Order No. 3 up to an amount of $440,000; and
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 10, 2026
1 PARKS CONT’D
c. Directed the City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion with the Los Angeles County Registrar Recorder’s Office.
2 STREETS/SIDEWALKS/
LANDSCAPING The City Council unanimously received and filed items A, B, C, D & E during consent calendar:
a. Accepted completion of construction of the, (i) Citywide Residential Resurfacing Project, Phase IV , City Project No. 699-ST, and (ii) Citywide Sidewalk Improvement, Phase X, City Project No. 698-ST, effective February 5, 2026, constructed by Sequel Contractors, Inc.;
b. Directed the City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion with the Los Angeles County Registrar Recorder’s Office;
c. Approved Contract Change Order No. 2 to Contract No. 2025-30-CC with Sequel Contractors, Inc., which is necessary to fund additional improvements within the Liberty Blvd, Missouri Ave, Madison Ave, and Frontage Road work areas of the Citywide Residential Resurfacing Project Phase IV , in an amount not-to-exceed $339,572;
d. Approved Contract Change Order No. 3 to Contract No. 2025-30-CC with Sequel Contractors, Inc., which lowers the final contract amount by $266,554 based on the final quantities of work performed; and
e. Authorized the Assistant City Manager/Director of Public Works to execute Contract Change Order Nos. 2 and 3 to Contract No. 2025-30- CC.
3 COMMUNITY DEV/
HOUSING The City Council unanimously approved items A, B & C during consent calendar:
a. Agreement (Contract No. 2026-11-CC) with MNS to provide one temporary part-time contract planner for a four-and-a-half-month period until the end of the 2025-2026 fiscal year, in a form acceptable to the City Attorney;
b. Authorized the Mayor to execute the Agreement and any necessary amendments or extensions; and
c. The reallocation of $63,766.00 from Salaries (Account No. 100-603- 41-5101) to Professional Services (Account No. 100-603-41-6101) to fund the contract.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 10, 2026 4 PARKS The City Council unanimously approved items A, B & C during consent calendar:
a. Purchase order with Tricore Enterprises, Inc for delivery, renovation and installation of scoreboard equipment at the Swim Stadium in the amount of $159,548.06;
b. Appropriated funding from the Community Development Block Grant Fund Account #243-634-61-xxxx in the amount of $144,254; c. Appropriated funding from the Park Enhancement Fund Account #271-490-61-9200 in the amoiu"it of $15,294.06.
5 WARRANTS The City Council unanimously approved the Warrant Register for February 10, 2026, by motion of Council Member Davila and seconded by Mayor Barron.
Total ofChecks: $ 4,964,529.74
Less:Voids $ (39,928.51)
Less: Employee Payroll Deductions $ (415,260.45)
GrandTotal: $ 5,339,861.68
Cancellations: 112826, 112528, 111701, 111943-110001, 109815, 111575, and 111986
ROLL CALL: Council Member Avalos, yes; Council Member Hurtado, yes; Council Member Davila, yes; Vice Mayor Rios, yes; Mayor Barron, yes.
ADJOURNMENT Council Member Hurtado unanimously adjourned the meeting at 9:06 p.m. and seconded by Vice Mayor Rios.
PASSED and APPROVED on this 24'h day of March 2026.
ATTEST:
arron, Mayor Yodit City Clerk